The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Romance reigns supreme at Lagos, Abuja Continental Hotels

    Romance reigns supreme at Lagos, Abuja Continental Hotels

    With Valentine’s Day just ten days away, Lagos Continental Hotel has unveiled a special package for couples desirous of a romantic Valentine’s Day experience like no other. General Manager Lagos Continental Hotel, Mr. Christoph Schleissing disclosed that the hotel’s goal was to create magical, memorable moments for every couple. “Our goal is to create magical, memorable moments for every couple, helping them celebrate their connection in the most sophisticated setting in Lagos,” he said.

    From a 5-course gourmet dinner to a lively brunch with bottomless Prosecco, the hotel has curated packages that cater to all tastes and preferences. The hotel’s Sugar 52 Pool Bar & Lounge is the perfect spot for a relaxed and exclusive vibe. Reserve a special spot at the 5th-floor poolside cabanas and enjoy a bottle of Prosecco, elegant decorations, and access to an à la carte menu.

    The hotel’s Valentine’s Day celebrations will feature live music, fine dining, and special surprises. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner or a lavish satiation, Lagos Continental Hotel has something for everyone.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Richard Mutanda explained that the hotel’s packages are designed to deliver world-class hospitality that resonates with the spirit of love and celebration. “Our 2026 Valentine’s promotions offer exceptional romance and value”, he said. Imagine enjoying a romantic horse-drawled carriage ride around the city, or a couples’ spa treatment at the hotel’s luxurious wellness center. The hotel’s team is dedicated to making the Valentine’s Day experience unforgettable. The hotel’s luxurious rooms and suites are available for couples looking to extend their stay. Each room is carefully designed to provide the ultimate relaxation experience. Lagos Continental Hotel is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities. This Valentine’s Day, choose the best and treat yourself and your loved one to an unforgettable experience.  The hotel’s Valentine’s Day packages are designed to cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled celebration with friends, Lagos Continental Hotel has something for everyone.

    Meanwhile, its sister company, Abuja Continental Hotel is also set to make this year’s Valentine’s Day unforgettable for couples. Under the themes Be My Valentine and Love in Every Touch, the hotel promises an intimate and indulgent experience like no other.

    General Manager, Aurelio Giraudo, disclosed that the hotel has curated packages that blend romance with luxury and African hospitality. “Valentine’s Day is a beautiful opportunity to honor connection and care. At Abuja Continental, we’ve curated packages that blend romance with our signature luxury and African hospitality”, he said.

    The Be My Valentine dining packages, he noted offer couples a range of options, from a magical evening under the stars to a private gourmet experience.

    According to him, imagine savoring a delicious dinner by the poolside, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, or enjoying a private dinner in the luxurious Obudu exclusive setting. Mr. Mutanda added that the hotel’s 2026 Valentine’s offerings provide exceptional value and variety. “Our packages are designed to create meaningful, high-end moments in the heart of Abuja”, he said.

    He noted that the hotel’s Love in Every Touch couples’ spa and wellness promotion is a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate together. The package includes a Swedish massage, body analysis, access to the swimming pool, and a healthy smoothie drink.

    According to him, couples can choose from a range of luxurious rooms and suites, each carefully designed to provide the ultimate relaxation experience with hotel’s world-class amenities and exceptional service ensuring that every moment is cherished.

    He pointed out that the Valentine’s Day celebrations will feature live music, fine dining, and special surprises stressing that the hotel’s team is dedicated to making this season truly special, ensuring every couple leaves with cherished memories.

    Mutanda explained that Abuja Continental Hotel located in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, makes it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway noting that the hotel’s serene surroundings and luxurious amenities create the ultimate ambiance for love and connection.

    He noted that the hotel’s Valentine’s Day packages are designed to cater to all tastes and preferences adding that whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a relaxing spa experience, or a luxurious stay, Abuja Continental Hotel has something for everyone.

    “Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of its Valentine’s Day offerings. From the exquisite dining options to the exceptional service, every detail is carefully crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience,” the director averred.

  • FRC cautions states, council against borrowing without clearance

    FRC cautions states, council against borrowing without clearance

    The Federal Government has warned states and local governments against borrowing from financial institutions without a Certificate of Proof of Compliance from the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC).

     It said loans gotten without an FRC certificate are not only against the law but have serious legal implications.

    The commission issued the warning during a financial management workshop attended by the 23 local government chairmen in Kaduna yesterday.

    FRC’s Director of Legal Services, Investigation and Enforcement,  Charles  Abana, represented the Executive Chairman, Victor Muruako, at the event organised by the Kaduna State Fiscal Responsibility Commission.

     The commission said states and local governments needed to understand that the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 does not permit them to borrow for everyday running costs.

    READ ALSO: U.S. confirms troops on ground in Nigeria amid ISIS counterterror push

     It stated that governments that intend to get loans must understand that they must use such loans for projects like infrastructure and human development that have long-term value.

    The commission, in a statement by its Strategic Communication officer, Bede   Anyanwu, also described the practice of spending public money without approval in the budget as  “fiscal haram,” which damages public trust and slows down development.

    “Every kobo spent must have value for money. Public resources must be planned, budgeted for, properly appropriated and disbursed towards the execution of projects that positively impact the lives of the people,” a part of the statement read.  

    The FRC cautioned local government leaders against giving out public funds to friends, supporters, party loyalists and adding names of people who are not properly employed to their payrolls.

    According to the commission, all spending must follow what is approved in the budget and must be tied to real work and real benefits for the people.

     It also warned financial institutions, especially banks, against granting loans outside the law. Public officers who ignore the law,  said the commission,   risk serious sanctions.

    The federal agency admonished council chairmen to run open and transparent administrations, manage funds carefully, and think about how their decisions today could affect future generations.

     The commission said it was ready to offer technical support to help local governments put proper fiscal responsibility laws in place for a strong and disciplined financial system.

      Governor  Uba Sani was praised in the statement for supporting reforms that promote transparency and accountability.

        Sani condemned the misuse and theft of public funds and called on all elected officials and political appointees to act with honesty and openness in carrying out their duties.

     He said his administration remains committed to reforms, financial discipline, and responsible leadership, adding that people’s trust can only be earned when public money is managed properly and used for their benefit.

    Earlier,  Executive Chairman of the state fiscal responsibility commission, Sani  Bako, described the workshop as an important step towards improving how public funds are managed at the local level.

    Bako welcomed the support of agencies such as the Code of Conduct Bureau, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Bureau of Public Procurement, and the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity.

    He added that strong public financial management is key to lasting development, leading to better roads, cleaner communities, improved schools, and overall economic growth.

     He noted that other agencies at the workshop presented papers on ethical leadership, proper procurement, and fighting corruption, all geared towards ensuring that public funds are used wisely at every level of government.

  • Fed Govt gave out N2.45tr as infrastructure, security support to states, FCT

    Fed Govt gave out N2.45tr as infrastructure, security support to states, FCT

    The Federal Government disbursed N2.45 trillion to the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) between March 2024 and August 2025 for infrastructure development and security intervention.

    The sum was to help them repair roads and bridges, improve schools and health facilities, and strengthen security operations during the period.

     Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, made this known yesterday in a post on his verified X handle  @BwalaDaniel.

    “This support is helping to fix roads and bridges, improve schools and health facilities, and strengthen security operations in communities across the country where Nigerians need results the most,” he said.

    Bwala explained that federal support to states is consistent with global norms, noting that countries such as the United States routinely provide federal funding to state and local governments to support infrastructure, education, health and public safety.

    READ ALSO: U.S. confirms troops on ground in Nigeria amid ISIS counterterror push

     He added that India and several other developed economies also deploy central government grants to help regions deliver major projects and essential services closer to the people.

    Bwala linked the interventions to the policy direction of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the 2025 Budget of Restoration, which prioritises securing peace, rebuilding prosperity and strengthening national development.

    Under the budget framework, he said priority remains on security, infrastructure, health and education, with emphasis on transparency, accelerated delivery of energy, transport and public works, job creation and improved living standards.

    Bwala added that sustained cooperation between the Federal Government and the states is critical to achieving a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

    “Under President Tinubu’s 2025 Budget of Restoration, Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity, priority remains on security, infrastructure, health and education,” he said.

    “The goal is clear to ensure transparent use of funds, accelerate energy, transport and public works, create jobs and improve living standards through strong cooperation between the Federal Government and the states for a safer, more prosperous Nigeria”, Bwala added.

  • Electoral Act Amendments likely for passage Wednesday

    Electoral Act Amendments likely for passage Wednesday

    Ongoing amendments to the Electoral Act will strengthen the electoral process, the Senate assures Nigerians yesterday.

    The Red Chamber  insisted that it  will not disappoint the public despite prolonged closed-door deliberations on the bill.

    Senators yesteday met for over four hours to deliberate on contentious provisions of the amendment bill, a development that has heightened public interest and speculation over the fate of the reforms.

    Replying  a question after the session, a ranking senator who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained that the length of the meeting was not unusual, noting that critical national issues often require extensive engagement.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    According to a source, the Senate is set to openly adopt the votes and proceedings on the bill, stressing that the process would be transparent and in line with democratic standards.

    “Tomorrow, we are going to openly adopt the vote and proceedings. It is going to be open. It is as good as passed,” he said.

    He clarified that the final decision would only become official after voting and adoption of plenary proceedings, adding that senators would still be given the opportunity to contribute before the proceedings are formally approved.

    On key reforms, the lawmaker said the proposed amendments seek to reinforce the role of voters in determining electoral outcomes, rather than the courts.

    “It is no longer about courts declaring candidates as winners. It is now the responsibility of the voters to make someone win,” he said.

    He also said that the bill contains strict provisions against the submission of false or fake documentation by candidates, warning that any candidate found culpable would lose the slot, while the affected party would forfeit the right to present a replacement.

    “They already had ample opportunity to ensure that credible candidates emerged,” he said.

    The senator added that issues surrounding the transmission of election results were also addressed during deliberations.

    He emphasised that the Senate’s position was informed by inputs from stakeholders and outcomes of public hearings conducted on the bill.

    “What we have done arose from all the stakeholders and the public hearings that we held. The Senate has not deviated from that,” he said.

    When contacted for comments, the Chairman Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Adeyemi Adaramodu refused to give details.

    He simply said despite speculations in the publication domain, the Senate would not disappoint Nigerians on the ongoing electoral reforms process.

    Reaffirming the Senate’s commitment, Adaramodu declared: “The Senate will not disappoint Nigerians. Whatever Nigerians want, we will not disappoint them.”

    The Senate is expected to conclude consideration of the bill and formally adopt its decisions at plenary following the closed session report today.

  • DSS arraigns Malami, son on charges of terrorism, illegal possession of firearms

    DSS arraigns Malami, son on charges of terrorism, illegal possession of firearms

    • Trial begins Feb 20

    The Department of State Services (DSS) yesterday arraigned former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN) and his son, Abdulaziz, on a five-count charge of terrorism and illegal firearms possession.

    It was another significant courtroom moment as one of Nigeria’s most powerful former law officers stood in the dock.

    Father and son were arraigned on a five-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja, in a case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/63/2026.

    Malami is also accused of refusing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers whose case files were allegedly forwarded to him while he served as Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

    Both Malami and his son are further accused of unlawfully warehousing firearms in their residence at Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State, without lawful authority.

    According to court documents, Malami is charged in count one with knowingly abetting terrorism financing.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    In counts two to five, the former AGF and his son are accused of unlawful possession of a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, sixteen Redstar AAA 5.20 live rounds of cartridges and twenty-seven expended Redstar AAA 5.20 cartridges.

    The alleged offences are said to be contrary to and punishable under relevant provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2004.

    Malami and Abdulaziz pleaded not guilty when the counts were read to them.

    Prosecuting counsel, Calistus Eze, urged the court to remand the defendants in the custody of the DSS and fix a date for the commencement of trial.

    Defence counsel, Shuaibu Aruwan (SAN), made an oral bail application, arguing that the defendants had already been held in DSS custody for over two weeks.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik rejected the oral bail application, noting that the Federal High Court is a court of record and that bail applications must be formally filed.

    She consequently ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody and adjourned the matter till February 20 for the commencement of the trial.

    The counts in the charge read, in part:

    •            That you, Abubakar Malami of Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State, adult, male, sometime in November 2022 at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Maitama, Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did knowingly abet terrorism financing by refusing to prosecute terrorism financiers whose case files were brought to your office as Attorney-General of the Federation for prosecution, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 26(2) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

    •            That you, Abubakar Malami and Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami of Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State, adults, males, sometime in December 2025, in your residence at Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did engage in conduct preparatory to committing an act of terrorism by having in your possession, without licence, a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, sixteen (16) Redstar AAA 5.20 live rounds of cartridges and twenty-seven (27) expended Redstar AAA 5.20 cartridges, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 29 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

    •            That you, Abubakar Malami and Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami, sometime in December 2025, in your residence at Gesse Phase II Area, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without licence, had in your possession a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 3 of the Firearms Act, 2004 and punishable under Section 27(1) of the same Act.

    •            That you, Abubakar Malami and Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami, without licence, had in your possession sixteen (16) Redstar AAA 5.20 live rounds of cartridges, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, 2004 and punishable under Section 27(1) of the same Act.

    •            That you, Abubakar Malami and Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami, without licence, had in your possession twenty-seven (27) expended Redstar AAA 5.20 cartridges, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Firearms Act, 2004 and punishable under Section 27(1) of the same Act.

  • PDP crisis: Makinde, Wike renew hostilities

    PDP crisis: Makinde, Wike renew hostilities

    The battle for control of the soul of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) resurfaced yesterday with a clash between Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

    Both men, who were political soul mates in 2023, threw potshots at each other.

    Makinde, speaking during the inauguration of the PDP secretariat in Ibadan, launched a scathing attack on Wike and vowed that he would not allow the PDP to be dragged down.

    Makinde said: “I know that a lot of you are concerned about the PDP, asking what is happening in the party. Well, we are all in Ibadan, which is the political, administrative and cultural capital of the Yoruba race.

    “The first thing I want to say is that, in Yorubaland, we always say that if you see a house or a compound that is peaceful, it is because the illegitimate children in that house have not come of age.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    “The illegitimate children in the PDP grew up in 2015, had their time, and for 10 years – a decade – they practised their illegitimacy in the PDP. But they were expelled in November 2025. So, no more vagabonds in the PDP.

    “Whatever it is that they are doing, you should be able to trace it back to their origin. In 2015, the PDP lost power at the federal level.

    “There was a gap in the leadership. Otherwise, those vagabonds would never have been able to take hold of the PDP.”

    Makinde said he teamed up with Wike in the past when his mission was not clear to him.

    He added: “Let me confess: I came into government in 2019 and towards 2023, I was yoked with them. But now, I have repented; I am no longer with them. But for them to hold the PDP for another party to be in power, it is no, no, no.

    “If a lie endures for 20 years, truth will overtake it in one day. Liars can continue to peddle their lies, but I have absolute trust in Nigeria’s judiciary. I know they will do the needful.

    “So, all these court cases will come together at some point, and the judiciary, being the last hope of the common man, will give justice to the PDP.”

    Explaining why the Oyo PDP secretariat was named after Omokunmi Mustapha, Makinde said the former chairman was instrumental to the return of the party to power in Oyo State in 2019.

    Wike, on Monday, after a meeting of the Rahaman Mohammed-led caretaker committee, announced March 29 as the date for the party’s convention and specifically said he was interested in the situation of the party in Oyo State.

    He said: “Let me declare my interest clearly: I am interested in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in all the happenings in Oyo State PDP.”

    It is believed that this remark was what Makinde responded to yesterday.

    However, after the governor’s comments, Wike’s spokesman, Lere Olayinka, fired back at Makinde.

    In a post on X, he stated: “He (Makinde) admitted that he was a vagabond. He said he has now repented. So he is first a vagabond who claimed to have repented. Happy repentance to him from being a vagabond.

    “However, in my place, it is said that even when a madman is cured of his madness, there will still remain some traces of madness.

    “Therefore, like he has been inconsistent politically, don’t be surprised tomorrow when he returns to being the same vagabond that he claimed to have repented from.

    “But the truth is, we understand his fears and worries. We understand that he knows what is coming. But too bad, we can’t help him from being consumed by the fire of political treachery that he ignited.”

    Wike’s aide added: “There is this political vagabond and harlot in Ibadan. He is only loyal to his personal political interests and he is always ready to sacrifice anything, including friendship.

    “In 2007, when he sought the PDP ticket to contest for the Senate and he couldn’t get it, he went to the ANPP.

    “In 2015, when he sought the PDP ticket to contest for governor and couldn’t get it, he went to the SDP.

    “Now that this vagabond has been expelled from the PDP, and his Ibadan amala ‘kanifa’ nullified by the court, where will he go next?”

    The bigger end of the stick swung to Wike’s bloc on Friday when the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan nullified the November 16 PDP convention held in Ibadan.

    The court declared all decisions taken at the convention null and void, including the election of the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) and the expulsion of Wike and former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, among others.

    It restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the Turaki-led NWC and affirmed that only a caretaker committee could run the PDP pending another convention to elect national leaders.

    The Wike camp’s caretaker committee, led by Mohammed, swiftly held a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and announced March 29 for the convention.

    But the Turaki NWC said it had appealed the judgment and was seeking a stay of execution.

    The party’s National Secretariat remains sealed by the police following clashes between the two factions over control of the office.

    Caretaker committee dissolves N/West, S/West, Plateau excos

    The caretaker committee, which dissolved the North-West, South-West and Plateau State working committees, said new leadership structures would be set up soon.

    Its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, said the decision was taken at a meeting of the committee in Abuja.

    He also said the national convention would now be held on March 29 and 30, instead of March 28 and 29, as previously announced.

    Mohammed said: “Recall that yesterday (Monday), during the NEC meeting, a date was announced for the national convention of the party, which was billed to hold on the 28th and 29th of March.

    “However, after careful consideration of certain factors, the date has been slightly adjusted for the convention to take place on the 29th to the 30th of March, instead of the earlier 28th–29th of March.

    “Secondly, the National Caretaker Working Committee has equally dissolved the Northwest, Southwest and Plateau State zonal committees. The zonal committees of the PDP will have caretaker committees appointed soon.

    “Furthermore, the timetable approved for the congresses in the states, zonal and ward congresses will take effect as approved by the NEC.

    “The National Caretaker Working Committee will consult widely before the announcement of the National Convention Planning Committee. These are the resolutions, or major decisions, that have been reached after today’s meeting.”

    Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Mohammed, said the party was united under his leadership.

    He said the committee would work round the clock to organise an all-inclusive national convention.

    He said: “There is no division in the PDP under my leadership. The PDP is united. We are working towards a peaceful and all-inclusive convention of our party.

    “I am sure that members of the party are following developments and know that we are genuinely working to reposition this party.

    “The party remains united, committed to bringing its members together, and focused on forging ahead in preparation for future elections.

    “This caretaker committee is also working in accordance with the PDP constitution and electoral laws to organise an all-inclusive national convention.

    “As we move forward, our focus will continue to be on inclusiveness, transparency and ensuring that every member of the party has a voice in shaping the future of the PDP.”

    Party workers back Turaki faction

    Party workers, who pledged support for Turaki, said the Federal High Court in Ibadan had constituted itself into an appointing authority.

    A statement by 76 employees, including the Acting Director of Administration, Gambo Isa Guade, and the Director-General of the Peoples Democratic Institute, Dr Edward Ugbada, said Turaki remained the legally recognised leader.

    The statement reads: “The management and staff of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI) have noted the recent judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, on the issue of the leadership of our great party and, as critical stakeholders, state as follows:

    “That the entire management and staff of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reaffirm our recognition, loyalty and allegiance to the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki SAN-led National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party, which was duly and legally elected at the party’s National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15–16, 2025.

    “That we stand by the election of the National Working Committee and all other resolutions reached at the Ibadan National Convention, as they are in the general interest of our party in the exercise of its supremacy over its internal affairs, in line with the Constitution of the PDP and extant judgments of the Supreme Court.

    “That the staff of the PDP, as custodians of the PDP Secretariat, will not align with or recognise any other unauthorised leadership apart from the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki SAN-led National Working Committee (NWC), because the leadership was validly elected at the National Convention sanctioned by all the legitimate organs of the party.”

  • World Bank: Nigeria now global reference for credible reform leadership

    World Bank: Nigeria now global reference for credible reform leadership

    Nigeria is now frequently cited globally as an example of steady, credible reform leadership, World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde said yesterday

    The World Bank chief made the remark yesterday during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja.

    With the President to receive her were the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun and the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) to the President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia.

    Anna Bjerde was accompanied by other officials of the institution.

    The World Bank Managing Director praised Nigeria’s reform progress over the past two years, particularly the government’s consistent resolve to stay the course despite challenges.

    The consistency and the clear evidence of positive results, she noted, have built strong confidence among investors, policymakers, and the private sector.

    The Bank chief highlighted the forthcoming Country Partnership Framework as being firmly anchored in Nigeria’s own development vision, particularly the goal of achieving a $1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and seven per cent growth.

    READ ALSO: U.S. confirms troops on ground in Nigeria amid ISIS counterterror push

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the ongoing economic reforms, acknowledging that though the process has been challenging, “there will be no turning back.”

    The President stressed that while the subsidy removal and the unification of exchange rates initially triggered inflation, it has since reduced significantly, and the naira has stabilised, improving investor confidence and ease of doing business.

    According to Tinubu, the reforms being implemented are anchored on transparency, accountability and stable policies.

    President Tinubu highlighted agricultural transformation as a priority of his administration, noting that investments have been made in the sector through zonal mechanisation centres, improved seed development, and fertiliser availability, supported by the growing petrochemical industry, to boost yields and move farmers from small-scale operations into strong cooperatives.

    “Nigeria is the heart of the continent, and we must do what’s necessary to strengthen the economy, particularly looking at the young population of this country, looking at the vast area of arable lands.

    “How do we employ mechanisation and make agriculture easier? I have embarked upon that. We have created zonal mechanisation centres to help the farmers,” he said.

    The President called on the World Bank to deepen its partnership with Nigeria by accelerating financing options, reducing bureaucracy, sharing development models, managing risks, and building local skills to fast-track inclusive growth and prosperity.

    During the meeting, the World Bank chief underscored the importance of improving access to finance for small, medium, and large enterprises, especially mid-sized firms, which are key drivers of employment.

    She acknowledged Nigeria’s focus on strengthening early childhood development as essential to long-term productivity, and assured the Bank’s support in this regard.

    “Many countries around the world, even middle-income and upper-middle-income countries, are suffering again with rising levels of stunting. And here, we’ve identified early childhood development as a strong entry point. So, all of this, to say we’re looking forward to a new country partnership framework,” she said.

    She reaffirmed the World Bank Group’s commitment to a programme aligned with Nigeria’s priorities, combining public and private sector support.

    Bjerde stressed that the World Bank Group, through its institutions, the International Development Association (IDA), International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is ready to continue to support Nigeria’s reform agenda.

  • Free tutorial for Badagry West LCDA pupils

    Free tutorial for Badagry West LCDA pupils

    To boost academics, the Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, Rauf Ibrahim Yemaren, has approved a free educational tutorial programme for pupils.

    The tutorial is designed to support pupils and students, especially those preparing for internal and external examinations.

    Yemaren said the initiative forms part of his administration’s commitment to investing in education as a foundation for sustainable development. He said education remains a top priority in empowering students with knowledge and skills.

    READ ALSO: U.S. confirms troops on ground in Nigeria amid ISIS counterterror push

    Yemaren, however, urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the opportunity by ensuring their children participate in the programme.

    The council Academic Committee Chairman, Comrade Whenu Segun, said the initiative underscores the chairman’s dedication to youth development, educational advancement, and inclusive governance, as the local government continues to implement people-oriented programmes that positively impact residents.

    Also, the Project Coordinator, Comrade Aladeotan David, who also doubles as Vice Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Lagos West, commended the chairman for his leadership, noting that education is a gateway to a successful future.

     Aladeotan urged every youth to tap into the opportunity and secure a future for themselves.

  • Four NSCDC personnel in Bayelsa police net over ‘role’ in blogger’s death

    Four NSCDC personnel in Bayelsa police net over ‘role’ in blogger’s death

    The police in Bayelsa State have detained four personnel of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) over their roles in the death of Patrick Peresoudei, a 24-year-old blogger in Amassoma community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

    According to a statement by the command, the NSCDC officers allegedly accompanied a man identified as Bodmas Kemepadei to Amassoma, where Peresoudei was arrested. He was taken to Kemepadei’s residence in Yenagoa, where he was reportedly subjected to torture before his death.

    The statement signed by Musa Mohammed, a Deputy Superintendent Police, showed that the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) is also questioning the investigative team attached to Operation Restore Peace (also known as Operation Puff Adder).

    The police emphasised their commitment to a thorough, impartial, and transparent probe into the circumstances leading to Peresoudei’s death.

    “All suspects alleged to have been involved in the incident will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law if found culpable,” the statement read.

    READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

    The prime suspect, Bodmas Kemepadei—who is at large—is the subject of an active manhunt, with the command activating its intelligence network to locate and apprehend him.

    The Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa State, Iyamah Daniel, appealed to the public for continued support and understanding during the investigation. He urged residents to provide any useful information that could assist the police.

    Responding to the police statement on the ongoing police investigation into Peresoudei’s death, the Bayelsa State NSCDC spokesman, Solomon Ogbere, stated that the officers had been assigned to protect Kemepadei under the Tatitan Security corridor – a security arrangement for pipeline infrastructure protection.

    “Yes, our personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were with Bodmas Kemepadei on the day of the incident because they were attached to him based on Tatitan Security corridor to protect pipeline infrastructures and upon realising it was a case of cyberbullying they retreated and advised Mr Bodmas to take the matter to the police. Patrick and his brother were handed over to the police based on their advice.

    Ogbere emphasised that the NSCDC does not condone any form of illegality and is fully cooperating with the police investigation.

    “The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) does not tolerate illegality, and we are open to investigation and the personnel involved have already given a statement to the police,” he said.

    “We will allow due process as the Commandant frowns at anything illegal. NSCDC does not tolerate criminality and personnel found guilty will face the full weight of the law.”

  • Enugu police rescue woman from transnational human trafficking, arrest suspect

    Enugu police rescue woman from transnational human trafficking, arrest suspect

    The Enugu State Police Command has foiled another transnational human trafficking operation, rescuing a 25-year-old woman who was trafficked to Mali for prostitution.

    The police also arrested a 69-year-old man, identified as Eze Boniface, in connection with the crime.

    The arrest was made by officers from the Igbo-Eze North Police Division, following a complaint filed by the victim’s parents.

    Preliminary investigations indicate that in May 2023, the suspect and his accomplices allegedly lured the victim and her parents with promises of lucrative employment in a foreign textile company, offering a daily wage of $100.

    Contrary to these promises, the victim was trafficked to Mali, where she was reportedly forced into prostitution.

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    The syndicate is said to have profited 500,000 CFA francs from her exploitation.

    Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to dismantle the trafficking network, uncover other criminal activities linked to the syndicate, and apprehend those involved.

    Giwa warned parents, guardians, and young people to be cautious of false promises of employment abroad and to avoid falling prey to human traffickers.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed that the command remains committed to protecting citizens and curbing human trafficking in the region.